Manchester United 2 – 2 Benfica

Manchester United's stuttering Champions League campaign has delivered another unwelcome result as a Benfica side full of adventure and attacking verve secured the point that leaves Sir Alex Ferguson's team requiring a draw in Basel in two weeks' time to be sure of qualification for the knock-out stages. That result should not be beyond United, but Pablo Aimar's second-half equaliser means Benfica will be guaranteed top spot in Group C if they can defeat Otelul Galati, irrespective of the outcome in Switzerland.

Swansea City 0 – 1 Manchester United

Manchester United are clambering back to their feet. After being floored in humiliating fashion by Manchester City a month ago, they have now won five matches in a row without conceding a goal. City's swagger is becoming ever jauntier but at least their lead at the top of the Premier League is not getting any bigger. United may not be playing with panache but they are securing points.